In a recent interview, Smriti Irani, Union minister and BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi, made a bold statement by declaring that her primary competitor in the constituency is Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Irani emphasized that Vadra is “fighting from the backstage” in this election, in contrast to her brother, Rahul Gandhi, who at least engaged in front-facing campaigning.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s Campaign Strategy
This time around, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is managing the Congress’ campaign in both Rae Bareli and Amethi from behind the curtains, as per media reports. In Amethi, Smriti Irani is pitted against the Gandhi family loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma. Irani expressed her preference not to engage in petty politics and clearly stated that Priyanka Vadra is her main opponent, despite being the face of the campaign.
Smriti Irani’s Critique of the Gandhi Family
In addition to singling out Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Smriti Irani directed criticism towards Rahul Gandhi, labeling him an “absentee MP.” She asserted that the electorate would respond with their votes if they felt misled and underscored the importance of serving the people of Amethi earnestly. Irani also took a dig at Rahul Gandhi’s ethnicity, implying that his half-Italian heritage had contributed to his charisma and appeal.
Irani’s Background and Allegations Against the Congress
Unlike the political lineage of the Gandhi siblings, Smriti Irani hails from a modest background and has worked her way up in politics. She alleged that the Congress had engaged in illicit activities like booth capturing and poll violence in Amethi in the past, shielding these events from media scrutiny. Irani recounted an incident where fellow BJP MP Maneka Gandhi was reportedly attacked by “Congress goons” during an election against Rajiv Gandhi in 1989.
Amethi Lok Sabha Election Results 2019
In the 2019 election, Smriti Irani shattered the Gandhis’ long-standing dominance in Amethi by defeating Rahul Gandhi. Her victory by over 55,000 votes earned her the title of “giant killer.” The loss signified a significant shift in the political landscape of Amethi and marked a momentous occasion for Irani and the BJP.
In conclusion, Smriti Irani’s unwavering confidence and determination to challenge the Gandhis in their traditional stronghold of Amethi reflect her resilience and commitment to serving the people. As the battle intensifies in the upcoming elections, all eyes are on the heated contest between Irani and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, making Amethi a battleground of political ideologies and ambitions.
